Dermatology Sense

Why Everyone’s Talking About Hims for Hair Loss

Hair loss—whether from genetics, stress, or hormonal changes—can take a serious emotional toll. In recent years, Hims, an online telehealth brand, has become one of the most talked-about names in men’s hair loss treatment. Their ads promise convenience and proven results, but does Hims actually work for hair loss, or is it just clever marketing?

This article takes a dermatologist’s deep dive into the science, active ingredients, effectiveness, safety, and real-world results of Hims hair loss treatments. You’ll learn what the treatments contain, how they compare to prescription options, and whether they’re the right choice for your situation.

Understanding Hair Loss: The Basics

What Causes Hair Loss?

Most male hair loss is due to androgenetic alopecia—commonly known as male pattern baldness. It’s triggered by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that gradually shrinks hair follicles, leading to thinner and shorter strands.

Other causes include:

• Telogen effluvium (stress-induced shedding)

• Nutritional deficiencies (iron, zinc, biotin)

• Scalp conditions (seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis)

• Medical causes (thyroid disease, medication side effects)

Understanding the cause helps determine which treatments work. For example, DHT-blocking treatments work for androgenetic alopecia but not for hair loss due to stress or autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata.

What Is Hims?

Hims (or ForHims.com) is a U.S.-based telehealth company founded in 2017. It connects users with licensed healthcare providers online for discreet diagnosis and treatment of men’s health conditions—primarily hair loss, erectile dysfunction, and skincare.

The Hims Hair Loss Line Includes:

• Finasteride tablets (1 mg) — prescription-only DHT blocker

• Topical Minoxidil (2% or 5%) — over-the-counter hair growth solution

• Combination Finasteride + Minoxidil spray — newer compounded option

• Thickening shampoo and conditioner — caffeine- and saw palmetto-based

• Biotin gummies — dietary support (not a treatment for genetic hair loss)

How Hims Hair Loss Treatments Work

1. Finasteride (Prescription)

Mechanism: Finasteride blocks 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT. Lower DHT levels slow follicle miniaturization, allowing thicker hair growth.

Efficacy:
Clinical studies show that daily 1 mg finasteride reduces hair loss progression in over 80% of men and promotes regrowth in 60–65%. It works best on the crown and mid-scalp, and less on the hairline.

Timeline:
Results typically appear in 3–6 months, with continued improvement for up to a year.

Possible Side Effects:

• Decreased libido (1–2%)

• Erectile dysfunction (<2%)

• Breast tenderness or swelling (rare)

• Mood changes (rare)

Most side effects reverse after discontinuation, but users should consult their provider immediately if they occur.

2. Minoxidil (Topical Solution or Foam)

Mechanism:
Minoxidil is a vasodilator that increases blood flow to hair follicles and extends the anagen (growth) phase.

Efficacy:
Minoxidil works for both men and women with androgenetic alopecia. Studies show 40–60% of users experience noticeable regrowth, especially when started early.

Usage:
Apply 1 mL twice daily to dry scalp. Results appear in 4–6 months, with maximum benefit at 12 months.

Side Effects:

• Scalp irritation or dryness

• Unwanted facial hair (if dripped)

• Initial shedding (common in first 2 months)

3. Combination Therapy (Topical Finasteride + Minoxidil)

Hims now offers a topical spray combining both medications, a convenient option for those wanting to avoid oral finasteride.

Early studies suggest topical finasteride delivers comparable efficacy with lower systemic absorption, potentially reducing side effects like sexual dysfunction. However, large-scale trials are still limited.

4. Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner

These contain saw palmetto, niacinamide, and caffeine, ingredients known to support scalp health and possibly reduce DHT at the scalp level.

While these don’t reverse genetic hair loss, they complement medical therapy by maintaining a cleaner, healthier scalp environment.

5. Biotin Gummies

Biotin deficiency is rare, but mild supplementation supports keratin production. However, biotin alone doesn’t regrow hair unless a deficiency exists. Hims uses it as a supportive add-on.

Step-by-Step: How Hims Treatment Works for Patients

1. Online Consultation:
   Users fill out a health questionnaire and upload photos of their scalp.

2. Licensed Review:
   A U.S.-licensed healthcare provider reviews the case and may prescribe finasteride or combination therapy.

3. Delivery:
   Approved medications are shipped directly to the patient’s home in discreet packaging.

4. Follow-Up:
   Users can message their provider through the platform for side effects or dose adjustments.

This teledermatology model improves accessibility but may lack the detailed scalp evaluation you’d get in a physical dermatology exam (e.g., trichoscopy or blood tests).

How Well Does Hims Work? The Clinical Evidence

Let’s assess Hims products against clinical data:

Real-World Results: What Users Report

Positive Reviews

Many users report:

• Reduced hair shedding within 2–3 months

• Thicker texture by month 6

• Visible regrowth on the crown after consistent use

• Convenience of home delivery and automatic refills

Negative Reviews

However, some users mention:

• Initial shedding phase causing anxiety

• Mild scalp irritation from minoxidil

• Sexual side effects (rare) from finasteride

• Frustration with subscription management

Overall, most users who stay consistent for at least 6–12 months report satisfactory results.

What Dermatologists Think About Hims

As a dermatologist, I believe Hims provides clinically sound treatment options—particularly finasteride and minoxidil, which are FDA-approved and backed by decades of research.

However, it’s important to clarify:

• Hims doesn’t invent new drugs; it conveniently prescribes and delivers existing medical treatments.

• The effectiveness depends on diagnosis accuracy and consistency of use, not the brand name itself.

• Patients should be aware of potential side effects and follow-up regularly with their provider.

• For complex cases (e.g., diffuse thinning, female hair loss, scarring alopecia), an in-person dermatology visit is still recommended.

Pros and Cons of Hims for Hair Loss

✅ Pros

• Access to FDA-approved medications

• Discreet, online consultation

• Automatic shipping and refills

• Transparent ingredient lists

• Supportive educational content

❌ Cons

• Limited physical examination (no trichoscopy or scalp biopsy)

• Subscription model may be costly long-term

• Potential side effects of finasteride require monitoring

• Results take time—at least 4–6 months of consistent use

Cost Comparison: Hims vs. Other Options

Verdict:
Hims costs slightly more than generics but includes telehealth access and convenience, which many users find worthwhile.

Safety and Side Effects: What You Should Know

Hims prescribers follow FDA dosing guidelines, but users must stay informed.

Key precautions:

• Avoid finasteride if you’re trying to conceive or have liver disease.

• Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed tablets (risk of birth defects).

• Report any mood changes, libido alterations, or breast tenderness immediately.

• Discontinue minoxidil if severe irritation, rash, or dizziness occurs.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Use Hims

Good Candidates:

• Men aged 18–50 with mild to moderate hair loss

• Early-stage male pattern baldness

• Those comfortable with online medical care

• Individuals willing to commit for at least 6–12 months

Not Ideal For:

• Women (Hers, a sister company, offers alternatives)

• Sudden or patchy hair loss (possible medical causes)

• Scarring alopecia or active scalp disease

• Severe hair loss where follicles are already replaced by scar tissue

Dermatologist-Approved Tips for Maximizing Results

1. Start early. The sooner you address thinning, the more follicles you can preserve.

2. Use consistently. Missing doses reduces effectiveness.

3. Be patient. Expect results after 4–6 months, with continued improvement up to 12 months.

4. Maintain scalp health. Wash regularly with gentle shampoos to reduce inflammation and buildup.

5. Combine therapies. Oral finasteride plus topical minoxidil provides the strongest synergistic effect.

6. Monitor for side effects. Communicate with your provider if anything feels off.

7. Lifestyle support. Eat protein-rich foods, manage stress, and get adequate sleep—these support follicular health.

Alternatives to Hims

If Hims isn’t right for you, consider these dermatologist-endorsed alternatives:

• Keeps: Similar telehealth model with customizable finasteride/minoxidil plans.

• Rogaine: The original FDA-approved minoxidil brand, available OTC.

• Nutrafol: Nutraceutical approach combining botanicals and stress adaptogens.

• In-Clinic Treatments: PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), low-level laser therapy, or microneedling can complement at-home regimens.

FAQs

1. How long does Hims take to work for hair loss?
Most users notice reduced shedding in 2–3 months and visible regrowth by 6–12 months.

2. Can I stop using Hims once I see results?
Stopping treatment will cause regrown hair to fall out within a few months. Continuous use is necessary to maintain results.

3. Does Hims cause shedding at first?
Yes, mild shedding during the first few weeks indicates older hairs being replaced by new growth.

4. Can women use Hims hair loss products?
Hims products are formulated for men. Women should consult Hers, the female counterpart brand.

5. Is Hims FDA-approved?
The brand itself isn’t “approved,” but it prescribes FDA-approved medications (finasteride and minoxidil).

Expert Verdict: Does Hims Really Work for Hair Loss?

From a clinical dermatology perspective, Hims works because its core treatments—finasteride and minoxidil—are proven by decades of peer-reviewed evidence. The telehealth convenience, bundled care, and adherence support add value for many users.

However, it’s not a miracle cure. Effectiveness depends on:

• Starting treatment early

• Staying consistent

• Managing expectations (maintenance, not perfection)

• Monitoring for side effects

For most men with mild to moderate hair loss, Hims offers an evidence-based, accessible, and effective treatment pathway—especially when combined with good lifestyle and scalp care habits.

Key Takeaways

• Hims uses proven, FDA-approved treatments (finasteride + minoxidil).

• Works best for early-stage male pattern baldness.

• Results appear gradually (3–12 months).

• Side effects are uncommon but possible—always monitor your health.

• Dermatologist follow-up is advised for long-term use or advanced hair loss.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a board-certified dermatologist or licensed provider before starting any hair loss treatment.